The Red Devils were denied a victory at Mata's former club Chelsea yesterday when Diego Costa stuck late to salvage a point.

United's style of play has come under heavy scrutiny this campaign and has been labelled 'dull' and 'boring' by former players Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand.

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“We're showing now that we can play a high level of football ”

Juan Mata

With pressure mounting on manager Louis van Gaal, United have showed more intent to break down the opposition's defence in recent weeks, resulting in just one loss in their last nine matches in all competitions.

Despite their upturn in fortunes, United are still fifth in the league, six points behind fourth-placed Manchester City with 13 league games remaining.

Mata said: "We're playing a lot better now. The team spirit is good and as a collective group we're doing well.

"When you win and when you play good football, confidence grows. I think we're showing now that we can play a high level of football and can play attractive, offensive football.

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IMPROVEMENT: Juan Mata believes Manchester United are now playing attractive football

"That's what we're trying to do - that's what the fans want to see, so we try our best in every game. I think the last three or four games we've played really well."

Van Gaal's side travel to the Stadium of Light to face relegation-threatened Sunderland in the league on Saturday.